Dementia

Support System

What is Dementia?
Dementia is an umbrella term that
pertains to several different brain
diseases. There are over 100 various
types of dementia, yet they all affect the
persons cognitive ability. Memory loss
is a very common side-effect
experienced by those affected with
dementia. The risk of developing
different forms of dementia increases
with age, and many types are
progressive diseases that worsen over
time. Mental abilities such as thinking
and reasoning degrade in most forms of
dementia. Dementia is often confused
with normal aging, yet there are key
differences.

Alzheimers disease and other forms of

dementia are serious conditions that rely on
caring support systems to manage. If you
have a loved one with dementia, it is
important to monitor them carefully and be
prepared to help them with daily tasks.

For more information please access

the following resources:
Alzheimers Association
www.alz.org
Alzheimers & Dementia Resource
Center
www.adrccares.org
Dementia Caregiver Resources Inc.
www.dcrinc.org
By: Caleb Druckenmiller & Dan Tokar

A Guide to
Prevention and
Cognitive Care

Types of Dementia
Alzheimers Disease: This is the most
common form of dementia, accounting for
roughly 60-80% of cases. It is a progressive
disease that causes problems with memory,
thinking and overall behavior.
Vascular Dementia: This is the second most
common form of dementia, which results
from the blockage of blood flow to the brain.
Reduction of blood flow leads to insufficient
amounts of oxygen and key nutrients in
brain cells, which causes a decline in
cognition.
Dementia with Lewy Bodies: This is a
progressive form of dementia that inhibits
mental ability and alertness. It results in
impaired perception and judgment, and in
some cases hallucinations may occur.
Huntingtons Disease: This is a
neurological disorder that may progress into
dementia. It is a type of genetic muscle
disorder that causes motor skill issues such
as uncontrolled movements, inability to
process information, and emotional
disturbances.
Parkinsons Disease: This is a neurological
disorder that decreases motor skill function.
Movement of muscles, including walking and
other activities of daily living, are difficult to
control. Advanced stages of this disease can
lead to dementia and cognitive decline.

Nutritional
Prevention Methods
Alzheimers disease is by far the most
prevalent form of dementia. There is no
known cure for Alzheimers disease, which
makes prevention a key emphasis. Risk
factors are similar to those of cardiovascular
disease, and a healthy diet is vital in
preventing the development of Alzheimers
disease.

Omega-3 Fats: These unsaturated fatty

acids protect against inflammation. They
are found in peanuts, walnuts, flax seeds,
and certain types of cold-water fish, such
as tuna, salmon, mackerel and halibut.
B Vitamins: These vitamins play a key
role in reducing levels of homocysteine, a
toxic amino acid that damages the
temporal lobe of the brain. B vitamins can
be found in enriched grains, fruits and
vegetables. Vitamin B12 can be found in
red meats.
Antioxidants: These protect against
inflammation by fighting the oxidation
process which damages the brain.
Antioxidants include vitamins A (betacarotene), C and E. They are found in leafy
vegetables, fruits, almonds and beans.

General Indicators